Footwear

There are multiple factors to consider when choosing the right footwear. These factors include comfortability, foot width, stability, arch support, and activity level. If your shoes do not fit properly, they can place stress on your lower extremity joints which can lead to injury.

Comfortability: This can be argued the most important factor to consider when deciding on which shoes to purchase. Make sure you choose a shoe that feels comfortable while walking and doing daily activities.

Brands with extra cushion: Hoka, Orthofeet

Foot width: Choosing a shoe that is too wide for your feet can cause your feet to move around too much which can lead to injuries due to the lack of support and stability. Choosing a shoe that is too narrow for your feet can lead to friction which can cause blisters.

Brands for wide feet: New balance, Naturalizer, Brooks, Vionic

Brands for narrow feet: Nike, Asics, Sketchers

Arch Support: It is important to find a shoe that contours to the arch of your feet. For those with high arches, it is recommended to wear shoes with a large toe box and/or good ankle support.

Brands for Pes Planus (flat feet): Munro, Alegria, Adidas

Brands for Pes Cavus (high arch): New balance, Saucony, Asics

AFO’s: If you use an ankle foot orthosis, it is important to look for a shoe that has a wide toe box to prevent your toes from getting squished. You should have about a half inch space between your longest toe and the front of your shoe.

Brands with a wide toe box: Altra, Ryka

Activity level: There are different types of shoes that are made for different activities such as walking, running, and sports.

Walking shoes: Light weight with extra shock absorption in the heel and ball of the foot.

Running shoes: Shock absorption recommended along the entire bottom of the shoe. Running shoes should be firm with good torsional strength (less likely to twist).